Modern Performance for America's Sports Car
When the 3rd generation of America's sports car was introduced in 1967 a dramatic new body style ushered in styling that reflected the dawn of the space age. The C3 Corvette was produced from 1969 through 1982 and covered some of Corvette's best selling production years including the record-setting 1979 model year. While the early models featured spectacular race-inspired performance, federal regulations resulted in lackluster power in later models. For example, the early LS6 454 cu in big-block was conservatively rated at 425 hp but by the late '70s, the top power output was down to 180 hp from a detuned 350 V8. From the first Mako Shark II Concept through the mid-'70s the Corvette saw many updates in styling, including early efforts by chief engineer Zora Arkus-Duntov to create a mid-engined model. Flush door handles, retractable headlights, hide-away wipers, concealed cooling vents contributed to a design that was well received at the time. The chassis may have ca